Police Chief David P. Baker has promoted ten sworn officers and six civilians in the Alexandria Police Department from.
City officials and leaders of the Alexandria sheriffs and fire departments attended the special ceremony at the George Washington Masonic Temple on July 11.
Chief Baker was joined by Deputy City Manager Michele Evans as he gave the oath of office to three new lieutenants, six new sergeants and six civilians as families and friends watched.
Baker told the recipients that the promotions were the result of your enthusiasm, dedication and value based on commitment to yourselves, your colleagues, the department, city government and the citizens of Alexandria.
Baker praised them for reaching their new positions. Promotion is not an easy thing its not automatic. It requires courage to enter the arena of competition, passion and commitment to provide quality public service; confidence in your ability to get the job done in good times and bad; a willingness to accept responsibility, and all the challenges presented by this thing we call leadership.
Promoted to lieutenant were David A. Barnickle, Juan N. Torres and Jennifer L. Adcock.
New sergeants named were Gregg L. Ladislaw, Brian W. Thompson, Jerry H. Newcomb, Gerald A. Ford, Matthew S. Weinert, Edward S. Milner and Scott J. Patterson.
Civilians promoted included Mary K. Craige, who wasnamed division chief of the Technology Services Division. She also spoke on behalf of the promotees.
Others named to key civilian positions were Shawn M. Lasher, personnel and training section; Fabienne S. Fils-Aime, to secretary III in the police chiefs office; Erica J. Flournoy, ECT supervisor, communications section; Teresa A. Smith-Ross, communications training coordinator in the communications section; and Ashley N. Hildebrandt, public information officer, media relations unit.
Chief Baker said police department employees today are asked to do more than ever before. We hold them far more accountable and we require in these most difficult and uncertain times that they be all things to all people all of the time.
The chief added that the complexities faced by the modern police leader can be challenging, overwhelming and yes, even rewarding.
Baker was named police chief on Sept. 14, 2006, after serving 16 years as deputy chief. At that time, the citys police department staff included 484 employees with 324 sworn officers and an annual budget of $49 million.
Baker is also known for his community involvement. He encouraged those he promoted to be people of principle, fight for what you believe and keep your word.